The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced stricter measures to ensure compliance with the mandatory use of FASTags on vehicles. According to the latest guidelines, vehicles without a properly affixed FASTag on their front windscreen will be charged double the toll fee. This move aims to streamline the toll collection process and reduce delays at toll plazas.
FASTag: Double Trouble
In a recent statement, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) emphasized the importance of prominently displaying FASTags on the vehicle’s front windscreen. This placement is crucial for toll booth operators to easily scan the RFID-enabled barcode sticker. The absence of a properly affixed FASTag not only disrupts the toll collection process but also causes inconvenience to other highway users.
Key points from the guidelines include:
Mandatory Placement: FASTags must be prominently displayed on the front windscreen.
Enforcement Measures: Vehicles without FASTags will be charged double the toll fee and may face blacklisting.
CCTV Monitoring: Toll booths will record the vehicle registration numbers of cars without FASTags.
Bank Responsibilities: Issuing banks must ensure the FASTags are correctly placed on the front windscreen at the time of issuance.
Why the Strict Measures?
Since February 2021, FASTags have been mandatory for all vehicles, facilitating electronic toll collection and reducing the need for manual transactions. Despite the high penetration rate of around 98% and over 8 crore FASTag users, some vehicles still bypass the proper placement guidelines, leading to delays and inefficiencies.
The new guidelines aim to:
Reduce Toll Plaza Congestion: Ensuring all vehicles have properly placed FASTags will speed up the toll collection process.
Enhance Compliance: Strict penalties and enforcement measures will deter non-compliance.
Streamline Operations: Clear guidelines will help toll booth operators efficiently manage toll collection.
How to Ensure Compliance
To avoid penalties and ensure a smooth journey, vehicle owners should:
Check FASTag Placement: Ensure the FASTag is correctly affixed to the front windscreen.
Update Information: Verify that the FASTag account details are accurate and up-to-date.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check FASTag transaction alerts and statements for any discrepancies.
The NHAI’s new guidelines for FASTag placement and enforcement are designed to enhance the efficiency of toll operations and ensure a seamless experience for all highway users. By complying with these regulations, vehicle owners can avoid hefty penalties and contribute to a smoother toll collection process.
Stay informed and ensure your FASTag is properly placed to avoid double toll charges and enjoy a hassle-free journey on national highways.
Also Read: